Why Abu Dhabi in Summer is a Great Idea

For your next far flung, exotic destination look no further than Abu Dhabi, in particular during the summer months. Yes, that’s right. I’ve just suggested you head to a desert when temperatures reach boiling point. Trust me, this isn’t as mad as it sounds.

Abu Dhabi has lived in the shadow of Dubai, it’s flashier counterpart for many years. However, it is fast emerging as one of the region’s most compelling destinations. The capital city on the Persian Gulf has more to offer its visitors than just the latest shopping mall or record-breaking architectural structure.

Travelers who prefer something a bit different with a more authentic and cultural edge will find it in this captivating part of the Arabian peninsula.

Also known as one of the richest cities in the world, find out why when the mercury rises and the locals flee, it’s the perfect time for you to board a jet plane to Abu Dhabi:

Slashed hotel prices

You’ll find some of the most luxurious and opulent hotels in Abu Dhabi from suites overlooking an F1 race track, to grandiose beachside hotels to lavish palaces. Extraordinary stays obviously come with a eye-watering price tags. Summer is the time when five-star extravagance can be in reach as prices at these ultra-luxe hotels are considerably lower.

We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, one of the most opulent hotels in the city. The Venetian inspired property boasts palatial grounds, stunning interiors and a private beach. It also boasts a superb view of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmark, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Without the huge discounts on offer during the summer season, this stay wouldn’t have been possible.

It really pays to look out for the incredible deals around to entice travelers in the low season. You’ll find some tempting offers such as upgrades, free spa treatments and complimentary kids’ activities. What’s not to like?

Avoid the crowds

With many seeking to escape the city heat, being a tourist becomes a breeze. You’ll be able to reserve the best tables in the finest restaurants, never queue to enter a tourist attraction, sit at the front on theme park rides and have a choice of poolside cabanas for lounging.

Spoilt for choice with kids activities

Abu Dhabi is an incredibly family friendly place to visit in the summer. Once the heat rises you can either all cool off in the number of water parks, such as the futuristic Yas Island Waterpark. There are plenty of indoor activities to keep the little and big (adult) kids entertained and I’m not just talking soft play – Although they do have those too.

If you fancy high culture, the new Louvre Abu Dhabi is a sight to behold. The £1 billion art museum in the desert opened its doors in November 2017. It’s part of a thirty-year agreement between the city of Abu Dhabi and the French government.

During the summer there are always special discounts at major family attractions like Ferrari World. We enjoyed a fun-filled day at the newly opened Warner Bros. World. It’s one of the world’s biggest, fully air-conditioned indoor theme parks. Where those much loved animated characters come to life, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Scooby Doo. Not to mention your favourite comic book heroes.

Our visit was perfect, we literally enjoyed multiple, consecutive rides as the queues were practically non-existent. Another low season bonus!

I have to say wandering through Gotham city and Metropolis, certainly made this big kid’s childhood dreams come true. You can read all about our visit here.

Enjoy all the low season discounts

Top Tip Alert: Take a half empty extra large suitcase on your holiday!

The UAE does Malls like no other country in the world. The huge glittering, imaginative spaces serves every purpose from a meeting point for friends, family outings to a late night hangout.

During the summer not only are they a welcome escape from the heat, you will bag some of the best bargains. With many of them offering high-class stores. You could be heading home with a whole new designer brand wardrobe. Hello there, Armani, Prada, and Valentino. Cha-Ching!

Perfect place for a luxurious spa

When it’s scorching outside head to a spa for the ultimate in pampering. With a spa to suit every whim and budget, the difficulty will be narrowing down your options. Treatments can range from divinely scented melt-away stress massages, heavenly frankincense scrubs in opulent marble-clad hammams to unbelievable 24-carat gold or diamond encrusted facials.

A great way to experience a luxurious hotel is to book their spa for the day. Everyone needs a spot of indulgence on holiday, right?

Escape the unpredictable UK weather

Ok, so it’s hot! And yes your sunglasses go foggy as soon as you step out due to the high heat and humidity. Everywhere you go though is practically air-conditioned, so who cares! One thing a holiday in Abu Dhabi will certainly deliver is an abundance of sunshine and heavenly blue skies. This is a cultural summer break in the desert you can’t afford to miss out on.

26 Comments

I must admit I’ve oly ever transitted through Abu Dhabi but have always wanted to stay. The summer months have never really put me off however after reading this it seems there’s lots more in favour (discount wise) which is well, just rude not to take up!! Great Read and tips!

Been to Abu Dhabi a couple of times but only for day trips so I’ve never really had the chance to explore properly (or stay in one of their fabulous hotels). Personally, I love visiting the UAE at any time of year. I’ve done the height of summer a couple of times and it was fine, as you mentioned, everywhere is air conditioned. It’s way more comfortable than when the UK has a heatwave

We loved Abu Dhabi and preferred it to Dubai – took our 1st son when he was 3 months and had a gorgeous Xmas week wining and dining in glorious hotels and sunbathing around various beach bars – what’s not to like ? 😉 It looks like we have to go back with both kiddies soon though, the new Louvre looks great! #culturedkids

I have been looking forward to reading about Abu Dhabi ever since I followed your fun InstaStories on your trip over there (and the Maldives where you made us all very jealous!) I’m curious about the Louvre, and don’t know if you heard, but it was just announced as one of the finalists for the Design Museum of the Year Beazley Award. Not surprising, I am sure. Thanks for the tour, and I will be sure to check out the rates out at the Ritz Carlton when I go! Scarlett #culturedkids

I lived in Dubai during my younger years and we frequented this city often. But, this is a totally different Abu Dhabi from my childhood! It looks like it has tons to do for the family. Thank you for sharing great tips of the Ritz, Warner Bro Indoor Amusement Park, Louvre and Spa. This really is a beautiful part of the world that I hope people will consider visiting even in the middle of summer! #culturedkids

We love AD. My FIL used to work out there and we went out to visit him on a few occasions. AC is amazing everywhere though and I always too a cardy with me as those malls get rather chilly! Off season is a fantastic idea for AD -if only for the slashed prices on amazing hotels.
Thanks for linking up to #fearlessfamtrav